Jenna Ortega Movie Defended by Director Amid Release Cancellation and Record Reviews

A difficult start for Klara

Klara and the Sun follows an android purchased for a terminally ill teenager. The story centers on Klara’s growing understanding of life and her bond with the young girl.

The film was initially set for a wide release, with Taika Waititi co-writing and directing the adaptation. Following its BFI London Film Festival showing, critics responded harshly, and Sony scaled back its theatrical plans.

Waititi speaks out

As the movie entered its second weekend in theaters, Waititi addressed criticism on Instagram. He said he had not read reviews of his films in almost 15 years, but added that he listens to people. Waititi described the critics who disliked the film as “irrelevant” and “out of touch.” He also referred to people who had wanted to become artists but instead became critics, and noted that some had disliked Jojo Rabbit.

Audience score rises

While critical reviews were negative, Klara and the Sun’s Rotten Tomatoes Audience score began to climb quickly during its second weekend. The article does not provide a score or explain how large the increase was.

The film’s reception therefore showed a contrast between critics’ response and the early movement in its audience rating. Sony’s reduced release plans followed the critical reaction, while Waititi continued to defend the project.